To don the buckskins and represent West Virginia University as the Mountaineer mascot is an honor that has been bestowed on fewer than 65 alumni. The mascot, a beloved symbol for fans, students and alumni all over the world, embodies the true spirit of the University.

For alumni Steve (‘79, ‘84) and Karen (‘81) Farmer of Charleston, West Virginia, the Mountaineer is an ambassador who, in addition to rallying fans at athletic events, is committed to the WVU values of pride, hard work, integrity and determination. The couple also has witnessed firsthand the tireless efforts and expenses of the individual who takes on this role as he or she travels throughout the state and country attending sendoffs, visiting local elementary schools and participating in other community events. In recognition of the dedication of these individuals, the couple established the Stephen and Karen Farmer Mountaineer Mascot Fund through the WVU Alumni Association to provide support for the mascot’s outreach efforts.

The $125,000 endowment will provide financial assistance for expenses not covered through the mascot’s scholarship/stipend, including lab fees, books, travel expenses, equipment (buckskins), and other items necessary to fulfill the role of Mountaineer mascot.

“The Mountaineer mascot is one of the most visible faces of West Virginia University,” Karen Farmer said. “These students travel thousands of miles each year to reach out to alumni, prospective students, fans, school children and others, and often some of the expenses are made out of pocket from the student. With this gift we hope to provide the mascot opportunities to attend even more events that showcase the very best of West Virginia University.”

In a typical school year, the Mountaineer makes more than 300 appearances, including visits to elementary schools and hospitals, alumni/community events and philanthropic activities throughout West Virginia and its borders. The mascot also is one of the most requested WVU officials for alumni chapter and WVU Parents Club events.

Click below to hear the WVUToday radio spot about the endowment.

During his reign as the 2014-15 Mountaineer Mascot, Michael Garcia has made more than 240 personal appearances to date, excluding sporting events. He has visited 35 different counties in West Virginia and attended various functions, including the Boy Scouts of America Celebration, Boone County Pig Roast, Big 12 Media Day, AutoZone Liberty Bowl and WVU Day at the Legislature, to name a few. He recently made his first appearance at the Big 12 Men’s Basketball Tournament.

“The mascot is much bigger than this gift, and it is our hope that others will honor the Mountaineer by providing additional gifts to the endowment so that future men and women who serve in this coveted role will benefit for years to come,” added Steve Farmer.

The gift was made in conjunction with A State of Minds: The Campaign for West Virginia’s University. The $1 billion comprehensive campaign being conducted by the WVU Foundation on behalf of the University runs through December 2017. For more information about WVU Alumni Association giving opportunities, including contributions to the mascot fund, contact Nicole Riggleman at 304-293-4731.

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CONTACT: Tara Curtis, WVU Alumni Association
304-293-0972, tecurtis@mail.wvu.edu

Follow @WVUToday on Twitter.